Picture this: A patient arrives at the emergency room with severe chest pain. Before doctors can determine the best treatment, they need to see what’s happening inside the body. That’s where a radiologic technologist steps in, using sophisticated imaging equipment to capture precise internal images that help save lives.
Think about the last time you or someone you know needed an X-ray. The calm, professional voice guiding you through the process, positioning you correctly, and ensuring the perfect image – that was a radiologic technologist at work.
These healthcare professionals serve as the eyes of modern medicine, operating advanced imaging technology while ensuring patient comfort and safety.
Total employment: 227,800 (2023)
Common Names for Radiologic Technologists & Technicians
- Computed Tomography Technologist
- Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist
- Imaging Technologist
- Mammographer
- Radiographer
- Radiologic Technologist
- Radiology Technician
- X-Ray Technologist
What Radiologic Technologists & Technicians Do
Radiologic technologists and technicians play a crucial role in the healthcare system, using advanced imaging technology to assist in diagnosing and treating various medical conditions. Their primary responsibilities include:
- Patient Care and Safety: Ensure patient comfort and safety during imaging procedures while following radiation protection protocols for both patients and staff, minimizing exposure while maintaining image quality.
- Imaging Procedures: Perform diagnostic imaging examinations including X-rays, CT scans, and other radiographic procedures following physician orders and established protocols to create clear, accurate images for diagnosis.
- Equipment Operation: Maintain and operate sophisticated radiologic and imaging equipment according to manufacturer specifications and safety guidelines to ensure optimal performance and accurate results.
- Positioning and Technique: Position patients and equipment correctly while selecting appropriate technical factors (exposure time, distance, penetration) to capture quality diagnostic images while minimizing radiation exposure.
- Documentation and Records: Maintain detailed patient records, document procedures performed, and record technical factors used for each examination to ensure proper medical documentation and continuity of care.
- Quality Assurance: Review images for technical quality, proper positioning, and adequate exposure, adjusting as needed to provide physicians with the highest quality diagnostic information.
- Infection Control: Follow strict sterile procedures and infection control protocols to maintain a safe environment for patients and healthcare team members.
- Interdepartmental Communication: Collaborate effectively with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to coordinate patient care and ensure proper imaging procedures are performed.
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